An introduction and overview of MIMO radar applications for pit slope monitoring: MSR ESPRIT

The concept of Multiple Input and Multiple Output (MIMO) radar applications for pit slope stability monitoring is discussed and illustrated based on the physics utilised by the system. The Estimation of Signal Parameters via Rotational Invariance Techniques (ESPRIT), is used to determine the Direction of Arrival (DOA) with an antenna array.

The system is a staring array, meaning that the antenna is deployed in a stationary position. The area that may be scanned is fixed, and comprises an area of 90° in azimuth and 60° in elevation. The resolution is highly refined with an operating range between 50 and 4 000 m. The system is fully georeferenced in order to allow for full 3D identification of alarming points.

The advantage of using a MIMO architecture is that there is continuous observation of an area by means of fast repetitive observation, as opposed to a periodic scanning of the area. This means that atmospheric change is measured at a near real time update rate, thereby enabling the effective mitigation of atmospheric interference.

MSR^IV ESPRIT is suitable for pit slope conditions where there are both highly brittle and fast moving instability, which may be complex in nature, in the form of differential movement rates across the unstable portion of the slope. Additionally, pit slopes that experience inclement weather conditions, such as temperature inversions and microclimates, will benefit from this technique of removing atmospheric-induced errors, resulting in a more accurate and precise true movement profile.